Top 15 Things to do in California for Halloween for Adults

As a California resident and a huge Halloween enthusiast, I’m excited to share my favorite spooky and fun activities to do in the Golden State during the Halloween season. From haunted houses and ghost tours to elaborate costume parties and eerie outdoor adventures, the Golden State transforms into a spooky wonderland each October.

California has something for every adult for the spooky Halloween season. So, why not to dive into the festive fun with these top 15 things to do in California for Halloween for adults. Let’s start discovering how you can make the most out of this haunting season!

Key Takeaways:

• Spooky Attractions: California offers a variety of haunted houses, hayrides, and scare zones that cater specifically to adults, providing a thrilling and chilling experience during the Halloween season. Some popular options include the Queen Mary’s Dark Harbor, Knott’s Scary Farm, and Universal Studios Hollywood’s Halloween Horror Nights.
• Festive Events: Adults can enjoy Halloween-themed parties, festivals, and parades throughout California, such as the West Hollywood Halloween Carnaval, the San Francisco Halloween Party, and the Long Beach Zombie Walk. These events often feature live music, costume contests, and plenty of spooky atmosphere.
• Unique Experiences: California offers some one-of-a-kind Halloween experiences for adults, including ghost tours, haunted wine tastings, and even zombie-themed escape rooms. These unique activities provide a fresh twist on traditional Halloween celebrations and are sure to leave a lasting impression.

PS: Don’t forget to check out my compilation of “5 Must See Halloween Haunted Houses in San Francisco” on my YouTube channel here!

1- Haunted Hayride Nights

Oh, why not to start the eerie Halloween fun with a haunted hayride on a crisp autumn night!

There’s something about the combination of the cool air, the darkness of the woods, and the promise of frightful fun that gets my heart racing. Haunted hayrides offer a unique blend of jump scares, creepy characters, and sinister settings that will leave you screaming with delight.

Now, I know what you’re thinking – what makes these haunted hayrides so scary? Well, let me tell you, it’s the unpredictability of it all! You’ll never know when or where the next fright will come from, keeping you on the edge of your seat (or should I say, on the edge of your hay bale?) the entire time.

Every haunted hayride is carefully crafted to create an immersive experience that will leave you breathless. From the moment you climb aboard, you’ll be surrounded by an atmosphere of fear and foreboding. The rustling of leaves, the creaking of trees, and the distant howls will all combine to create an unforgettable night of terror.

2- Universal Studios Halloween Horror Nights

Amidst the most popular Halloween spots, Universal Studios in Hollywood is the top most one. It is renowned for its Halloween Horror Nights, an event that transforms the theme park into a horror-filled landscape.

Featuring multiple haunted mazes, scare zones, and live shows inspired by popular horror films and TV shows, this event is a must-visit for adrenaline junkies. The attention to detail and immersive experience ensure that every corner you turn will have you on edge.

I will recommend you to select nights from late September through early November to get the optimal fun. Also, don’t forget to purchase tickets in advance as they sell out quickly.

3- Spooky Wine Tastings

As an adult, I love combining two of my favorite things: Halloween and wine! California offers a variety of spooky wine tastings that will get you in the mood for the spookiest night of the year.

Little did I know that California’s wine country is also home to some of the most haunted vineyards and wineries. Imagine sipping on a glass of wine while surrounded by creepy atmosphere and eerie legends. Sounds like a perfect Halloween night to me!

Sip on Wicked Wines – Now, I’m not talking about your average wine tasting. These wineries offer a unique Halloween experience, complete with spooky decorations, costume contests, and even haunted wine cellar tours. You’ll get to taste some of the best wines California has to offer while getting into the Halloween spirit.

Taste the Fear Factor – There’s nothing quite like sipping on a glass of wine while being terrified out of your wits. Some wineries take it to the next level by offering haunted wine and food pairings, complete with scary stories and creepy ambiance.

4- Knott’s Scary Farm

Knott’s Berry Farm in Buena Park undergoes a sinister transformation each Halloween to become Knott’s Scary Farm. Known as the largest and most haunting Halloween event in Southern California, it features numerous mazes, scare zones, and attractions that cater to the bravest souls. The park’s history and dedication to horror make it a staple for Halloween enthusiasts.

You will be thrilled with multiple haunted mazes, scare zones and spooky shows. Halloween is the perfect occasion to visit this most amazing place. It is better to browse through different ticket packages available to select the one that best matches your requirements.

5- Creepy Coastal Hikes

Not only do I love Halloween, but I’m also a huge fan of the great outdoors. And what’s better than combining the two? California’s coastline offers some of the most unique and spooky hiking trails that are perfect for adults looking for a thrilling Halloween experience.

While exploring haunted trails, you can get lost in the coastal fog rolling in, creaking trees and the mysterious sound of waves crashing against the shore. You’ll find trails like the Ghost Trail in San Diego’s Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve, where the misty atmosphere and twisted tree branches will have you on edge.

Creepy old lighthouses, like the one in Point Sur State Historic Park, are said to be haunted by the ghosts of former lighthouse keepers. As you hike to the top, the creaking stairs and dimly lit rooms will have you wondering if you’re really alone. And if you’re lucky, you might even catch a glimpse of a ghostly figure lurking in the shadows.

6- Winchester Mystery House: Unhinged

The Winchester Mystery House in San Jose is known for its bizarre architecture and ghostly legends. During Halloween, it offers “Unhinged,” an immersive horror experience that takes guests through the haunted halls of the mansion. The unique setting of the Winchester House adds an extra layer of creepiness to the event.

For an unforgettable spooky fun, I will greatly suggest to select nights in the month of October. Furthermore, various ticket options are available. Also don’t forget to purchase the tickets in advance.

7- Monster Mash Parties

Once again, Halloween in California is all about the parties! And, let’s be real, what’s a Halloween party without some spooky tunes to get you moving?

As an adult, I’m always on the lookout for a Monster Mash party that will get my heart racing and my feet tapping. Luckily, California has plenty of options to choose from.

While the undead might not be able to bust a move, you certainly can! Many of California’s hottest nightclubs transform into haunted havens on Halloween, featuring DJ sets that will have you dancing with the dead till the witching hour.

Clearly, California knows how to throw a party, and Halloween is no exception. From costume contests to live performances, these Monster Mash parties promise an unforgettable night of thrills and chills.

Mash up your favorite Halloween tunes with some killer cocktails, and you’ve got a recipe for a howling good time! At these parties, you’ll find yourself surrounded by fellow ghouls and goblins, all united in their love of Halloween revelry.

8- Halloween Time at Disneyland

Disneyland in Anaheim transforms into a Halloween wonderland each year. While it may be known as a family-friendly destination, adults can also enjoy the festive decorations, themed rides, and special events. The Haunted Mansion and Space Mountain get spooky makeovers, and there are plenty of seasonal treats to indulge in.

The duration of mid-September through October is the best time to visit Disneyland for a perfect Halloween fun. With themed rides, festive decorations and seasonal treats, it is the best place for adults to celebrate Halloween.

9- Zombie Apocalypse Events

All Halloween enthusiasts know that the undead are a crucial part of the spooky season. This year, why not take your love for zombies to the next level by participating in a zombie apocalypse event? I’ve got the scoop on the best ones in California.

From fighting off hordes of the undead to outrunning them, there’s an event for every kind of thrill-seeker. Events like “Zombie Survival” in Los Angeles and “Zombie Paintball” in Sacramento put your combat skills to the test. You’ll be armed with paintballs or Nerf guns, and your mission is to take down as many zombies as possible while navigating through a post-apocalyptic landscape. Trust me, it’s an adrenaline rush like no other!

With events like the “Zombie 5K” in San Diego and “Run for Your Lives” in San Francisco, you’ll be putting your running shoes to the test. These unique races feature “zombies” chasing you along the course, making it a fun and terrifying experience.

Fight your way to the finish line, dodging “zombies” and obstacles along the way. These events are perfect for those who want to get their hearts racing without getting too up close and personal with the undead.

10- The Queen Mary’s Dark Harbor

Docked in Long Beach, The Queen Mary is a historic ship with a reputation for being haunted. During Halloween, it hosts Dark Harbor, an event that capitalizes on its eerie ambiance.

With haunted mazes set up on the ship and its surrounding areas, along with live entertainment and terrifying characters roaming the venue, Dark Harbor promises a spine-chilling experience.

11- Spine-Chilling Escape Rooms

After a long day of exploring California’s spooky attractions, I love to challenge myself and my friends to a spine-tingling escape room adventure. There’s something exhilarating about being “trapped” in a haunted house or creepy asylum, racing against the clock to escape before it’s too late!

To get your heart racing, try an escape room that simulates a haunted house experience. You’ll be “trapped” in a creepy mansion or abandoned asylum, surrounded by eerie sounds and special effects. Can you uncover the dark secrets and escape before the ghosts and ghouls catch up with you?

The “7 Deadly Sins” escape room at Escapology I tried in San Francisco was particularly memorable. We found ourselves trapped in a church where we had to complete the mission before the clock strikes Midnight hours. It was really a fun experience that made my Halloween unforgettable.

12- Cemetery Lane at Heritage Square Museum

Cemetery Lane is a family-friendly Halloween event that takes place at the Heritage Square Museum in Los Angeles. Adults can enjoy the historical setting, spooky decorations, and guided tours of the preserved Victorian homes.

The event offers a blend of education and entertainment, making it a unique way to celebrate Halloween.

13- Ghostly Gala Events

Now, if you’re looking for a more sophisticated way to celebrate Halloween, California has plenty of ghostly gala events that will make your spine tingle with delight!

Any Halloween enthusiast will love the variety of ghostly gala events California has to offer. For instance, the Haunted Harvest Festival in San Francisco’s Pier 39 features live music, costume contests, and even a haunted house or two. Meanwhile, the Monster Mash Bash in Los Angeles promises a night of dancing, cocktails, and creepy creatures lurking in the shadows. Whichever event you choose, I’m sure you’ll have a killer time!

14- Horror Movie Marathons at Vintage Theaters

California boasts several vintage theaters that host horror movie marathons during Halloween. Venues like the New Beverly Cinema in Los Angeles and the Castro Theatre in San Francisco screen classic and contemporary horror films, offering a nostalgic way to celebrate the season. These marathons often include themed concessions, costume contests, and special guests.

15- Wicked Witch Walks

Despite the spooky atmosphere, Halloween-themed walks can be a delightful way to experience the Golden State’s autumn charm. As an adult, I love immersing myself in the eerie ambiance, and California offers plenty of opportunities to do so.

Saunter through the dimly lit alleys and streets of California’s oldest towns, where the air is thick with mystery and intrigue. You’ll feel like you’re stepping into a real-life horror movie set, minus the jump scares, of course!

The thrill of the witching season is palpable as you join a guided tour, where your host will regale you with tales of witchcraft, curses, and haunted histories.

To make the most of your Wicked Witch Walk experience, I recommend arriving early to soak up the pre-tour atmosphere. Many tour operators offer themed cocktails or snacks to get you in the mood. Don’t be afraid to ask questions or take photos – your guides are there to ensure you have a howling good time!

Wrap It Up!

Halloween in California offers a diverse range of activities and events for adults looking to embrace the spooky season. From above, I’ve shared my top 15 things to do in California for Halloween as an adult, and I hope you found some spooky inspiration for your next adventure! So, grab your favorite costume, gather your crew, and get ready to make some unforgettable memories in the Golden State!

Browse through my ultimate travel guides that cover the Golden State in details!

1- A Spooky Trip to Bodie State Historic Park

2- 13 Thrilling Things to do in California for Halloween

3- 13 Best and Amazing Things to do in California for Couples

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